Manchester United striker Anthony Martial pays tribute to club's supporters

The 19-year-old says the club's fans are why he has done so well on his introduction to English football

Mark Critchley
Friday 20 November 2015 16:09 GMT
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Manchester United forward Anthony Martial
Manchester United forward Anthony Martial (Getty Images)

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Anthony Martial has paid tribute to Manchester United’s supporters, citing them as the reason for his seamless transition to the Premier League.

The 19-year-old, who arrived at Old Trafford at the end of the transfer window from AS Monaco, has scored five goals in 14 games for the club.

The youngster has quickly become a fan favourite at Old Trafford and Martial’s credits the supporters as the inspiration behind his excellent start.

"When I get onto the pitch, I block everything out and I really focus on the pitch," he told Foot Locker in a promotional video.

"It's like the stadium is empty and I'm really focused on my team and the opposing team.

"The best thing about playing football is making fans happy. The supporters help us a lot out on the pitch.

“The atmosphere at Old Trafford is really unique and when you're a bit tired, they really help you, they shout out your name and that gives you extra energy.”

No moment of his fledgling United career has endeared him towards the Old Trafford crowd more than his debut goal, a cool, composed finish against arch rivals Liverpool.

Martial, who is currently without a goal in five games for his new club, unsurprisingly rates the strike as his best ever.

"I think the greatest goal I've ever scored is the one against Liverpool," he revealed. "It was amazing for me and it really made my name in the Manchester team."

Having picked up a foot injury in France's 2-0 international friendly defeat to England on Tuesday, Martial looks set to miss United's trip to Watford this weekend.

Manager Louis van Gaal has also lost Wayne Rooney and Marouane Fellaini to injury, leaving him with a dearth of options up front.

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